Iran Defends Right to Full Nuclear Fuel Cycle Amid Delayed US Talks

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has reaffirmed Iran’s right to possess the full nuclear fuel cycle under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), emphasizing that Iran, like several other NPT members, enriches uranium while rejecting nuclear weapons. Araghchi criticized what he called 'maximalist' and provocative positions from the West, warning they would only undermine negotiations. He asserted that a credible and durable agreement is achievable if parties demonstrate political will and fairness. Talks between Iran and the US have recently been delayed, with Iran expressing concerns over continued US sanctions and a perceived lack of commitment to diplomacy. Despite Western accusations that Iran may be pursuing nuclear weapons, Tehran insists its nuclear program is solely for civilian purposes. Iran has also reached out to the UN Secretary-General to express its concerns about the negotiation process.